Programming

Our programming is centered around connecting you with your surroundings and furthering your relationship with our community. You will learn about the history of Bend and it’s growth over time, hear from city officials and local non-profits, and understand all of the ways you can get involved to give back to our community.

  • 5:00—Check In

    The event officially begins! Grab a drink and some delicious appetizers before we begin with our scheduled programming.

  • 5:30—Programming

    Join us for a rich discussion on the history of Bend, our key values, and where we are going in the future.

  • Networking

    After our programming you will be able to connect with our speakers, community leaders and other attendees!

BEND 101: Innovation for Community Impact

October 1, Ed Ray Hall, OSU - Cascades

Spend an evening with us at Bend 101—a welcoming gathering designed for new neighbors and long-time locals alike who want to deepen their connection to this special place we call home.

Innovation has its greatest impact when organizations combine their expertise, resources and perspectives. At Bend 101: Innovation for Community Impact, discover how Central Oregon organizations are collaborating to address emerging challenges and create new opportunities.

Rebecca Robinson, Associate Vice President for Economic Development and Industry Relations at Oregon State University, will offer an inside look at the Innovation District at OSU-Cascades, the vision behind it, and the path forward as the university builds a new kind of cutting-edge economic hub.

You’ll also hear from community partners who are solving challenges together in unique ways. Leaders from Central Oregon Community College and St. Charles will share how partnership is critical to meeting healthcare workforce demands and shifts. Visit Bend will share how its approach to destination stewardship supports community organizations developing creative solutions for sustainable tourism.

You’ll leave with a clearer picture of how Bend’s leading institutions and community partners are working across sectors to solve real challenges, strengthen our economy and shape a more resilient future for Central Oregon.

There will be time to socialize, indulge in bites and beverages, and enjoy the program at OSU-Cascades' Edward J Ray Hall.

Thanks to our sponsors, The Ladd Group with Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Real Estate, OSU-Cascades, Providence Health Plan, City of Bend, First American Title, Visit Bend, Hixon Mortgage, and Bend Magazine!

Register Now
Damon Runberg

Damon Runberg,
State Economist,
Business Oregon

Zak Boone, VP College Advancement/Executive Director Foundation, COCC

Rebecca Robinson, Associate Vice President for Economic Development and Industry Relations, OSU-Cascades

Kelly Cannon-Miller,
Executive Director, Deschutes Historical Museum

Zavier Borja, Director Destination Stewardship, Visit Bend

Kaylyn Grammater, Clinical Education Director, St. Charles Health System

Grant Ermis, Dean of Career and Technical Education, COCC

Topics Covered in Previous Programs:

  • Growth in Bend

  • Houselessness in Bend

  • Water Use and Allocation & Wildfire and Smoke

  • Land Use and Growth

  • Arts & Culture

  • Higher Education

  • Sustainability & Tourism

  • Healthcare in Central Oregon

  • Bend’s Parks and Libraries

Watch Past Events

Some of our previous Bend 101 events were recorded for future viewing. Take a look to get a sense of what it’s like to attend.


 

Testimonials

Here is what past Bend 101 attendees had to say about their experience.

“Really enjoyed the historical and economic presentations. Learning how Bend has evolved as a city was very interesting and informative and both presenters were excellent and worked extremely well together.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I loved learning the history of Bend. I think it's important to know how a place came to be and the changes it went through in order to appreciate where it is today, as well as how to move forward with respect for those have called Bend home for decades. I am very conscious of the fact that I am new here and shouldn't try to make Bend conform to my desires. I moved here because I liked Bend, I will strive to see that it remains the place I moved here for.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I was glad to see that the program addressed both the positive aspects of Bend’s history and culture as well as the challenges... Bend is not unlike many other cities around the country in terms of dealing with issues. Programs such as Bend 101 can be the catalyst for those who are fortunate to be able to afford to live here to get involved and become “part of the solution””

— Bend 101 Attendee